Jeremias Nyangoen's 'Women from Rote Island': Advocating Against Sexual Violence, Empowering Women from East Indonesia

The picturesque landscapes of Rote Island hide the harsh realities faced by its women, as depicted in the poignant film Women from Rote Island. Directed by Jeremias Nyangoen, this film, which won the Best Picture Award at the 2023 Indonesian Film Festival, shines a light on the pervasive issue of sexual violence and the resilience of women in the face of adversity. Women from Rote Island’s portrayal of the adverse emotional toll of sexual violence, allows its viewers to have a kinder view of those affected by the issue, reflecting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of Gender Equality.

The film’s narrative revolves around Martha, an illegal migrant worker who returns home to Rote Island from Malaysia, bearing the scars of trauma inflicted during her time abroad. Martha's ordeal, marked by her father's death and her own harrowing experience of rape while working in a plantation abroad, encapsulates the anguish endured by countless women in similar situations, as Rote Island is located in East Nusa Tenggara, one of the five provinces in Indonesia that contributes the most illegal migrant workers.

Upon Martha's return, her family eagerly awaits her arrival, only to be confronted with the stark reality of her anguish. Martha's silent demeanour and her struggles with PTSD serve as a grim reminder of the toll exacted by sexual violence. Despite the warm embrace of her family, Martha's internal turmoil remains palpable, underscoring the silent suffering endured by survivors of sexual assault.

The film's portrayal of Martha's journey is underscored by the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health in traditional societies. Martha's mother, Orpa, grapples with her daughter's battle with the effects of sexual violence. She’s torn between societal expectations and the need to confront Martha's trauma head-on. Her reluctance to seek medical assistance for Martha reflects the broader societal reluctance to address mental health issues, particularly in rural communities.

Women from Rote Island deftly navigate the complexities of Martha's experience, juxtaposing moments of quiet reflection with visceral scenes of trauma. The film's cinematography, characterized by sweeping vistas and intimate close-ups, serves to immerse viewers in Martha's world, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding for her plight.

Martha's resilience in the face of adversity is central to the film's narrative. Despite the horrors she has endured, Martha finds solace in her connection to nature, particularly her fascination with birds. This motif serves as a poignant symbol of Martha's inner strength and her ability to find moments of beauty amidst the darkness.

Moreover, the film sheds light on the broader issue of sexual violence in Eastern Indonesia, where cultural norms and legal barriers often hinder survivors from seeking justice. Martha's ordeal serves as a microcosm of the systemic challenges faced by survivors, from victim-blaming to institutional apathy.

Women from Rote Island underscore the urgent need to address sexual violence and empower women in Eastern Indonesia and beyond. By amplifying Martha's story, the film serves as a rallying cry for gender equality and justice for survivors of sexual assault.

Women from Rote Island is a powerful testament to the resilience of women in the face of adversity. Through Martha's journey, the film confronts the scourge of sexual violence and advocates for systemic change to ensure that survivors receive the support and justice they deserve. As Indonesia continues to grapple with the legacy of gender-based violence, films like Women from Rote Island play a vital role in sparking dialogue, fostering empathy, and driving social change.